The Science of Skin Scanners

by
Vanessa Day

Our skin is exposed to so many different elements, it’s difficult to know how healthy it actually is. Unfortunately, glancing in a mirror only shows what’s happening on the outer layers. Thanks to modern technology, skincare specialists can now see far beyond that surface layer and get down to the deeper problems plaguing our skin. Dermatologists and skin therapists are now using skin scanners on a regular basis to analyze the state of their patient’s skin. While the images on the scanner can be shocking, these machines can greatly help diagnose issues and help with further treatment.

How Do Skin Scanners Work?

Skin scanners are machines that commonly use black lights or filtered UV lights along with a magnified mirror to view abnormalities. When the system emits light to the skin, the skin cells respond to it differently depending on their chemical makeup. The reflected light is captured and analyzed by software, and the images show the skin’s current condition. sun damage is seen as freckles or dark spots known as solar tentigines. Severe skin damage is displayed as sagging, wrinkled skin. oily skin appears purple, while dry skin is seen as white, flaky patches. Clogged pores are orange dots that usually appear on the nose and cheeks.

Skin scanners are used for skin detection to accurately assess skin age and condition as well as evaluate future skin development. They help to target problem areas and determine proper treatment to help improve skin.

How and Why Do Clinics Use Skin Scanners?

Clinics rely on skin scanners to analyze patient’s skin. They help skincare specialists get to know a patient’s skin, and help guide them to care for it properly. Skin scanners can detect sun damage, oily and dry skin, blocked pores and even pigment disorders. Black and UV light skin scanners magnify issues that lie beneath the outer epidermal layer, which patients may never have known about otherwise. Once these issues are discovered, skincare specialists can better determine the right course of treatment to improve skin and even prevent future problems.

Do At-Home Skin Scanners Work?

Some professional skin scanners consist of a black light that reflects off of skin and reveals underlying problems. This model is relatively easy to reproduce in a portable, at-home version. There are a few at-home skin scanners available for purchase, and they have been known to accurately detect skin problems. However, consumers need to consider a few things before jumping for this option. First, at-home skin scanners are not as technologically advanced as professional ones, and the analysis may not be as complete. Second, patients have no training or extensive knowledge in skincare conditions and treatments. They may read the scans incorrectly and give themselves the wrong diagnosis. Finally, at-home skin scanners may seem more convenient than going to a clinic, but they can be expensive. Most dermatologist offices and skincare clinics offer a free skin analysis scan when patients come in for consultations, so spending extra money can be avoided if you see a professional.

It is always a good idea to meet with a certified skincare specialist who will carefully analyze your facial scan and give you a proper, medical diagnosis. Also, seeing a professional for a skin scan gives you the opportunity to ask questions about the state of your skin and how you can care for it.